HOSPITAL caterers have been given a boost after picking up top food hygiene marks for the second year running.

The catering department at Colchester General Hospital picked up five of stars out of five as part of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme.

Nancy James, catering manager at the Turner Road hospital, said: "This is the second consecutive year that we’ve achieved the highest mark.

"It’s a magnificent tribute to the consistently high standards set by all members of the catering team, who are a key group of staff often overlooked when it comes to gaining recognition.

"I’m really proud of them – and will do all that I can to make sure we achieve a hat-trick of perfect scores in 2017."

The department has 43 staff, including chefs, catering assistants, kitchen porters and storemen.

As part of the inspection, inspectors assessed freezers, chill rooms and store rooms and kitchens on the wards.